What are symptoms of arthritis?
First, it’s important to differentiate between the two main types of arthritis: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a localized degradation of joint material. It begins with mechanical wear and tear, but inflammatory processes may exacerbate progression as the disease advances. Osteoarthritis typically causes joint pain and loss of mobility. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), destructive inflammatory processes lead to joint deformation and cartilage erosion. Pain and impaired mobility in the affected joints are common. RA is a systemic inflammatory disease, and it may increase risk of cardiovascular disease and other non-joint conditions. Both diseases can cause significantly diminished quality of life in advanced stages.
What is the best arthritic diet?
In general, the Mediterranean diet is healthy for most people, including anyone with arthritis. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes foods that contain healthy fats like those found in fish, as well as unprocessed plant-based foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts and seeds. This dietary pattern provides lots of phytonutrients, many of which have inflammation-fighting properties. In addition, the Mediterranean diet generally provides a healthy ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats, which helps balances inflammatory pathways in the body.
What natural ingredients fight arthritis pain?
Natural options for arthritis discomfort relief are appealing because overuse of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and acetaminophen (Tylenol) is linked to many health problems. Extracts of white mulberry, Chinese skullcap and cutch tree have been shown to provide inflammation-fighting benefits and ease discomfort. For systemic inflammatory conditions, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D may provide benefits.
